County’s 2-1-1 line two years old

February 11, or 2-11, was National 2-1-1 Day and the second anniversary of United Appeal for Athens County 2-1-1 Information and Referral service. According to a news release, more than 120 referrals per month are made in Athens County.

"One of the most unique referrals is to business development services," Pam Harvey, executive director of United Appeal for Athens County, said in the release. "We are Athens County's most comprehensive, free, 24/7 listing of services available to people wanting to start or grow their small business. We truly see the need for these types of services that can help our local economy."

Harvey said the most frequent Athens County 211 referrals are for financial assistance – for electric service, rent and gas service as well as food pantries.

"These calls reflect the conditions of our economy," she said in the release. "United Appeal recognizes the need for a source of valid information for people in difficult situations."

By making a free call to 2-1-1, people can talk to a live call specialist and receive referrals to a wide range of programs and non-profit agencies that can help, she said in the release.

Five percent of United Appeal for Athens County 2-1-1 calls is from people wanting to give help, according to the release. They receive information about local volunteer opportunities and donation spots for such items as scrap metal and cell phones. The group also maintains information about local events and seasonal activities, such as tax preparation assistance. All 211-call specialist referral services are available in English, Spanish and other languages.

"2-1-1 is a free call for people who might be looking for information about which county or city government office to call for a particular service," suggested Harvey in the release. United Appeal for Athens County 2-1-1 maintains a database of more than 300 local agencies and government services and hundreds more statewide and nationwide programs.

Launched in 2011, www.211athenscounty.org is a free, searchable website containing the same information available through a 211 phone call.

United Appeal for Athens County 211 is funded entirely by local donations. Approaching the end of its 2012 fundraising campaign, the group is holding a raffle with more than $5,000 worth of prizes to be given away daily in March. Donations may be made through www.unitedappeal.org